This weekend locals are invited to bring their pets along to be blessed at a special service at the Cathedral of Christ the King.
EDITH the hen seemed a little unsure, sitting in a pew between Minnie the cat and Glastonbury the dog.
She soon settled. A little.
All creatures great and small – furry, feathered or finned – are invited for a blessing at the Cathedral of Christ the King in Lydiard Street South tomorrow.
Pets and their owners of all denominations can share in the special Anglican service, which commemorates St Francis of Assisi, patron saint of animals.
Kevin Harper, executive assistant to Anglican Bishop Garry Weatherill, said pet-friendly services were popular in San Francisco, New York City and across England.
This was the fourth in Ballarat.
“(In America) they can get camels or elephants along. We’re just hoping for a couple of horses and a few larger animals outside for a blessing,” Mr Harper said.
“This is our occasion to invite anyone along. If they can’t bring their pet, because it’s too ferocious or fragile, then they can bring a photo.
“We’ll have a shortened service inside the church and people can bring their smaller animals inside.”
The service will feature hymns and prayers related to St Francis and animals.
Reverend Ryan Bennett was keen to take the sermon to promote the important role animals play in the people’s well-being.
The cathedral choir, Ballarat Grammar School junior choir and Saturday Singers will join voices for the service.
The blessing service starts from 9.30am.